Ohio State Football: JT Barrett’s Saints days numbered?
By Chris Bruns
The former record-breaking, polarizing ex-QB of the Ohio State football team was trying to catch on as a backup in New Orleans. How does the Saints’ trade for Teddy Bridgewater affect his chances?
The New Orleans Saints acquired Jets QB Teddy Bridgewater in a trade on Wednesday, and it likely cost JT Barrett a roster spot.
In all likelihood, Barrett would have been released regardless of any new additions to the quarterback room. An undrafted rookie, Barrett already sat behind veteran Tom Savage and the promising Taysom Hill, a player whose potential is said to intrigue the Saints’ staff. With Drew Brees the undisputed starter, there seemed to be no room at the inn for JT.
But Barrett watchers held out hope that the former Buckeye star might beat out Hill for the number 3 spot on the roster, particularly after a disastrous week two in which Hill committed 4 turnovers in the first half.
However, the Saints now have all but closed the door on Barret’s chances of making the 53-man roster.
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Bridgewater will earn at least $5 million from the Saints to back up Brees this season. With their experience in the NFL and in the Saints’ locker room, Savage and Hill have a significant advantage over Barrett in the quest for the third quarterback spot.
JT seems headed for his release, a situation that has been heralded by his insignificant playing time this preseason.
The Saints have been enamored with his off-field leadership and demeanor, which even the most Barrett-bashing OSU fans would concede were never in doubt. If they also believe he can develop into a serviceable NFL backup — which, let’s be honest, seems to be Barrett’s ceiling — they may try to retain him for the practice squad.
The veteran backup role filled by Savage has been taken by Bridgewater, which seemingly makes Savage expendable. The veteran would likely try to catch on with another team. Hill’s versatility — he also covers kicks on special teams — athleticism and potential, along with his longevity with the Saints, seems to position him as a lock to make the roster, should the team opt to keep 3 quarterbacks.
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Barrett then should have a good chance to be asked back to fill a spot on the practice squad. While he may never start a game in the NFL, there should always be room somewhere for a player with his intangibles and drive.